October 4, 2016
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact:
Brandi Hinkle
Deputy Chief of Communications
brandi.hinkle@dhs.arkansas.gov
501-683-5286
Medicaid call center hours expanded, available 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
The Department of Human Services (DHS) Division of County Operations (DCO) has expanded call center hours for Medicaid beneficiaries, with operators now available from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday to answer questions.
“We are offering extended hours not only to address long hold times, but also to provide working families some flexibility so they can get their questions answered before school or after dinner,” said Mary Franklin, DCO director.
Currently, there is a backlog of overdue Medicaid casework that DHS and a temporary contractor are working aggressively to eliminate by the end of the year. Though DHS has made significant progress on the backlog, Franklin said the overdue casework has resulted in thousands of calls and long hold times.
Questions regarding Medicaid coverage, renewals and benefits can be directed to 855-372-1084. Those with ARKids First questions should call 888-474-8275. Medicaid claims inquiries should be directed to 800-482-5431. All three lines will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Questions about the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or Transitional Employment Assistance (TEA) will only be answered during regular business hours, Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
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